The streets of Mumbai bid a bittersweet farewell to the iconic Kaali-Peeli taxis, which have been synonymous with the city for six decades. This momentous change paves the way for newer car models and app-based cab services in the bustling financial capital. Industrialist Anand Mahindra, reflecting on the end of an era, shared an emotional tweet paying tribute to these beloved taxis that held a treasure trove of memories.
From October 30, the legendary Premier Padmini Taxis have made their final journey along the streets of Mumbai. These cars, known for being clunky, uncomfortable, unreliable, and noisy, have now given way to the modern era of transportation. Yet, for individuals of a certain generation, these taxis carried an abundance of memories and stories. Anand Mahindra, in a heartfelt tweet, bid adieu to the Kaali-Peeli taxis, acknowledging their role in safely transporting passengers from point A to point B.
In his tweet, Mahindra stated, “From today, the iconic Premier Padmini Taxi vanishes from Mumbai’s roads. They were clunkers, uncomfortable, unreliable, noisy. Not much baggage capacity either. But for people of my vintage, they carried tons of memories. And they did their job of getting us from point A to point B. Goodbye and alvida, kaali-peeli taxis. Thank you for the good times.”
The tweet, shared on October 30, has garnered over 4.1 lakh likes and 7.8 lakh interactions, including comments and retweets, reflecting the emotional attachment people have with these iconic taxis.
Mahindra’s tribute prompted a flood of responses from social media users, each sharing their personal memories and sentiments:
- “They had the best gear levers on the steering, though. It was a vibe,” one individual noted.
- Another commented, “They may have been clunkers, but they were a part of Mumbai’s charm and nostalgia. End of an era, but the memories they carried will forever stay in people’s hearts.”
- A user inquired, “Any plans or thoughts on reviving this classic model? It would be amazing to see it, with modern features, on the roads again.”
- “Really will miss this and the red double decker a lot. It defined Bombay and also India in many ways,” shared another.
- One user celebrated the taxi drivers, saying, “The drivers were: Your Google – Your Google Map – Your city guide – Your source for incredible stories – And sometimes, a soul-stirring conversation buddy. Oh yes, a ton of memories!”
- Lastly, someone added, “Tons of memories and a heart full of emotions! With a heavy heart, will miss you dearly.”
As the Kaali-Peeli taxis fade into the annals of history, they leave behind a trail of nostalgia and cherished memories, symbolizing the end of an era in Mumbai’s transportation landscape.
Sources By Agencies